The Opportunity

The Grafton-Midview Public Library is seeking a community-focused leader to serve as their next Library Director. This mission-critical position reports to a seven-member Board of Trustees, guides a dedicated staff of 23, oversees a $1.8 million operating budget, and is responsible for the overall daily operation and oversight of the library’s departments, collections, services, programs, and facilities.

The Library Director engages and collaborates with the library’s patrons, staff, Board members, business leaders, community partners, and other stakeholders to advance the library’s mission and goals.

In addition to organizing, directing, and evaluating all library operations and activities, the Library Director will:

• Prioritize the development of a new strategic plan to guide the library’s future direction and priorities
• Oversee budget planning, resource management, and fundraising efforts
• Expand and strengthen community partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and stakeholders
• Champion staff training, professional development, and a positive, high-performing work culture

Most importantly, the next Library Director at Grafton-Midview Public Library will balance respect for the library’s established strengths, community identity, and positive work culture with a forward-thinking approach to new service models and technology, evolving community needs, and organizational improvement.

About the Library and Community

The Grafton-Midview Public Library was established in 1944 as a school district library through the efforts of Harriet Spitzer, who led the push to create a free public library for the Grafton community. Originally housed inside Grafton School on Elm Street, the library later moved in 1971 to a former bank building on Main Street that was purchased for just $1.00. In 1991, the library underwent a major expansion and renovation, increasing its size from just over 2,000 square feet to nearly 12,000 square feet. Today, the library operates as one of seven independent public libraries in Lorain County and serves approximately 24,000 residents located in Grafton Village, Grafton Township, Eaton Township, and parts of Carlisle Township and Elyria.

The mission of the Grafton-Midview Public Library is to provide free and equal access to information, knowledge, and ideas; promote personal enrichment and life-long learning; encourage literacy and love of reading and foster cultural and educational programs and partnerships in a welcoming community environment. To learn more, visit:  gmplibrary.org

Located in southeastern Lorain County, Grafton is a close-knit and growing community that blends small-town charm with convenient access to larger metropolitan amenities. Home to a quaint, historic downtown district, established residential neighborhoods, and surrounding rural landscapes, the area offers a welcoming atmosphere with a strong sense of community pride and local identity. Residents benefit from a quieter and more affordable lifestyle while still having access to shopping, dining, healthcare, and entertainment options. The community is also well positioned geographically with convenient access to major transportation corridors, allowing residents to easily commute to both Cleveland and Akron. Outdoor recreation and natural amenities are abundant in the region, with nearby parks, trails, and golf courses. Combined with well-regarded schools, a family-friendly environment, abundant regional attractions, and a balance of rural character and suburban convenience, the Grafton area provides an appealing place to live, work, and build long-term community connections.

 

Position Qualifications and Compensation

• Five or more years of relevant organizational or departmental leadership experience in a mission-based organization is required.
• Experience in leading, hiring, training, developing, supervising, and evaluating staff is required.
• Experience in community engagement, collaboration, and advocacy [i.e., working and partnering closely with civic/community partners, local businesses, government officials, and other key stakeholders] is required.
• Experience providing strategic financial oversight and managing budgets in alignment with organizational goals is required.
• Experience with strategic plan development is required.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively engage diverse internal and external audiences, are required.
• Experience with facilities improvement and/or capital project management is preferred.
• A Master of Library and Information Science [MLIS] is preferred.

A generous compensation package includes a competitive starting pay range of $95,000 to $105,000; earned time-off allowances; medical, dental, vision, and life insurance; OPERS retirement plan; and more.

To Apply

To be considered for this position, please submit your resume and a cover letter [including salary requirements] to: ryansheehan@oahumanresources.com. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.